Cement Mason - Apprenticeship, Other Qualifications, and Advancement
Applications are taken on a year-round basis from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm
Monday through Friday excluding holidays. Applications are to be filled out
in person at 4231 W. Oquendo Road , Las Vegas , NV 89118 . Call (702)
452-8809 for directions.
Qualifications are:
- Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
- Must have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
- Must possess a valid drivers' license at the time of selection.
- Must posses the natural aptitudes essential to acquiring the skills
of the trade, as determined by prescribed aptitude tests.
- Must be physically able to perform the work of the trade with
reasonable accommodations.
- Must be willing to comply with the terms and conditions of the
(State of Nevada approved) standards.
- Must complete Form I-9 at time of selection.
The ability to get along with others also is important because cement masons
frequently work in teams. High school courses in general science,
vocational-technical subjects, mathematics, blueprint reading, or mechanical
drawing provide a helpful background.
On-the-job training consists of informal instruction, in which
experienced workers teach apprentices to use the tools, equipment, machines, and
materials of the trade. Apprentices begin with tasks such as chipping and
grinding previously placed concrete, smoothing out rough areas to produce a neat
appearance. Apprentices also will gain experience in edging, jointing, and using
a straightedge on freshly placed concrete. As training progresses, assignments
become more complex.
Operative Plasterer's and Cement Masons' Union Local 797 and its signatory
contractors sponsor this state approved apprenticeship program. The signatory
contractors provide the means for apprentices to acquire their required 5000
hours of on-the-job training and the union provides training facilities for
apprentices to satisfy the minimum 144 hours of classroom instruction each year.
In the classroom, apprentices are provided instruction on topics such as (not
inclusive): blueprint reading; scissor/boom lift operation; basic first aid/CPR;
Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety classes; layout; history of
concrete; forming, placing, and finishing concrete; stamped, colored, and
stained concrete.
Advancement is dependent upon satisfactorily completing
required classroom instruction, accruing necessary on-the-job training hours,
and prompt submission of required monthly forms. Upon satisfying State of Nevada
requirements (3-years/5000 hours), you are advanced to Journeyperson status.
With additional training, cement masons may become Foreman, General Foreman, or
even Concrete Superintendents for masonry contractors.
Cement masons should enjoy doing demanding work and working with their hands.
They should take pride in craftsmanship and be able to work without close
supervision.
Students saw-cutting stamped
Students applying stain to stamped
polymer-based topping.
polymer-based topping.
"The recruitment, selection, employment, and training of apprentices during
their apprenticeship, shall be without discrimination because of race, color,
creed, age, religion, national origin, disability, sex, or sexual orientation"